Attending one of Ohio's online colleges is an affordable way to earn a degree that can expand your job prospects in the seventh-largest state economy in the country — and beyond.
Enrolling in an Ohio online college or university can offer cost savings by reducing or eliminating expenses like campus housing and transportation. Schools may also charge lower tuition rates for online programs.
Many reputable higher education institutions in Ohio have online programs that offer the same high-quality education that you can find through a traditional on-campus experience.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Online Colleges in Ohio for 2025
#1 Best Online Colleges in Ohio 2025
Franklin University
- Columbus, OH
- 4 years
- Online
What Sets It Apart:
Founded in 1902, Franklin University partners with businesses, community colleges, and the international community to help adult students succeed. The university prides itself on offering a high-quality, affordable, and convenient education that fits your schedule.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $398
Out of State | $398
Why Students Choose Franklin:
- Long-Standing Track Record: Franklin has served adult learners for over a century.
- A College for Working Adults: Students can take various online courses to fit their busy schedules.
- Alumni Network: Franklin boasts nearly 45,000 alums around the world.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Flexible Payment Options: Franklin offers direct company billing to make payments convenient for students who participate in an employee tuition reimbursement program.
- Online Options: Franklin offers more than 70 online undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs.
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
95%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#2 Best Online Colleges in Ohio 2025
Ashland University
- Ashland, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
Home to colleges of arts and sciences, business and economics, education, nursing and health sciences, and theology, Ashland University supports a diversity of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. The expert faculty emphasizes excellence in teaching, shaping future leaders to serve with integrity and compassion.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $610
Out of State | $610
Why Students Choose Ashland:
- Emphasis on the Individual: Ashland aims to challenge each student on an individual level.
- Placement Record: Ashland reports that 91% of its alums find employment or pursue further education within six months of graduation.
- Academic Support: Students can access academic resources such as a tutoring center, a writing center, and an accessibility center.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Christian Identity: Ashland affirms Christian values at an institutional level.
- Limited Support on Weekends: Both the IT and library help desks close early on Saturdays and are closed on Sundays.
- Free to Apply: Ashland offers a cost-free admission application.
Percent Online Enrollment
62%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Online Colleges in Ohio 2025
Kent State University at Kent
- Kent, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
With over 90 online degree and certificate programs and over a quarter million alumni worldwide, Kent State University harnesses a broad academic network to deliver top-notch education to its students. The school supports learners in their academic and professional journeys, allowing alums to excel in the fields of healthcare, STEM, cybersecurity, technology, and many others.
Cost per Semester:
In State | $15,550-$26,100
Out of State | $15,550-$26,100
Why Students Choose Kent State:
- Groundbreaking Research Faculty: Kent State enjoys a long history of technical innovation in areas like material science.
- Professional Network: Kent State students embark on over 35,000 internships and co-ops every year, which allows them to make valuable connections and gain real-world experience.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Variable Tuition: Tuition for online students varies considerably by program.
- Ohio College Comeback Compact: Kent State participates in the Ohio College Comeback Compact, a program that helps students with financial difficulties finish their degrees.
Percent Online Enrollment
61%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Best Online Colleges in Ohio 2025
University of Toledo
- Toledo, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
An innovator in areas as diverse as solar energy, cellular research, and astrophysics, The University of Toledo stands out as a leading research university and academic medical center. Distance learners can earn a degree from UToledo, choosing from 15 undergraduate and 23 graduate degree programs delivered fully online.
Cost per Semester:
In State | $5,297
Out of State | $9,977
Why Students Choose UToledo:
- Asynchronous Education: Most of UToledo's online courses follow an asynchronous format, which gives students flexibility.
- Quality Matters Certified: The University of Toledo offers over 90 QM-certified online courses, facilitating an impactful distance learning experience.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Tuition Guarantee: Students pay a fixed rate for undergraduate tuition and fees, guaranteed for four years.
- Out-of-State Tuition Benefit: Students enrolled in 100% online programs can pay in-state tuition rates with a $5 per-hour surcharge.
- Rocket Payment Plan: With the Rocket Payment Plan, you can split your tuition into interest-free installments.
Percent Online Enrollment
58%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#5 Best Online Colleges in Ohio 2025
Walsh University
- North Canton, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
A private Catholic institution, Walsh University aims to educate students to make a lasting, positive impact in the world. With both graduate degree programs and accelerated undergraduate programs available fully online, students can earn their degrees quickly without relocating.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $510+
Out of State | $510+
Why Students Choose Walsh:
- Credit for Life Experience: At Walsh, students can earn credits for previous experience by submitting portfolios, military documents, and professional certifications for review.
- Accelerated Online Degrees: Walsh offers 24 accelerated online bachelor's programs, giving busy adults the opportunity to earn a degree quickly.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Catholic University: Walsh is an independent Catholic institution that aims to impact students' academic and spiritual lives.
- First Gen Cavs Program: First-generation students at Walsh can find support and guidance from faculty and staff mentors who were themselves first-generation students.
Percent Online Enrollment
40%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#6 Best Online Colleges in Ohio 2025
Youngstown State University
- Youngstown, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
Located halfway between Cleveland, Ohio, and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Youngstown State University offers students a rigorous education with a low 14-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio. Learners can enroll in YSU's online programs to earn a degree without accruing relocation costs.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $460
Out of State | $465
Why Students Choose YSU:
- Online Options: YSU offers online undergraduate degrees and certificate programs, as well as doctoral, master's, postgraduate, and certificate programs.
- Scholarship Opportunities: Students at YSU receive $8.1 million in scholarships each year.
- College Credit Plus (CCP): Middle and high school students enrolled in CCP can earn college credit online, at their high schools, or on YSU's campus.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Low Out-of-State Tuition: Out-of-state students pay only slightly more than their in-state peers for tuition.
- Tutor.com Partnership: YSU's Resch Academic Success Center partners with Tutor.com to deliver academic support from expert online tutors and other educational tools.
Percent Online Enrollment
58%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#7 Best Online Colleges in Ohio 2025
Bowling Green State University-Main Campus
- Bowling Green, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
According to The Wall Street Journal, Bowling Green State University ranks as the No. 1 college in Ohio for student experience. BGSU offers a quality academic experience to distance learners through online courses tailored to the schedules of working adults.
Cost per Semester:
In State | $5,117
Out of State | $5,249
Why Students Choose BGSU:
- Life Design: Students learn to balance health, career, and academics through BGSU's Life Design program.
- Career Design and Connections: The Kuhlin Hub for Career Design and Connections is a comprehensive resource for students to explore career opportunities.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Condensed Courses: BGSU offers seven-week online courses to suit the needs of adult learners.
- Traditional Options: BGSU offers 15-week full-semester courses for online students who want to study on a more traditional semester schedule.
- Falcon Tuition Guarantee: Incoming first-year students receive a tuition rate guaranteed to stay the same for four years.
Percent Online Enrollment
40%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#8 Best Online Colleges in Ohio 2025
Mount Vernon Nazarene University
- Mount Vernon, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
Founded in 1968, Mount Vernon Nazarene University seeks to challenge students to grow both academically and spiritually. MVNU offers a liberal arts education grounded in the Wesleyan Christian tradition to both its online and on-campus students.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $350-$398
Out of State | $350-$398
Why Students Choose Mount Vernon Nazarene University:
- Quality Adult Education: MVNU has supported adult learners since 1993, ensuring that professionals can fit coursework into their busy schedules.
- Online Options: Mount Vernon Nazarene University offers many fully online programs in fields like social work, finance, and more.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Christian Affiliation: Rooted in the Nazarene tradition, MVNU helps students discern their vocation in a way that is "intentionally Christian."
- Financial Assistance: MVNU provides financial assistance to 100% of its students.
- Dual Enrollment: MVNU accepts ambitious high schoolers into its dual enrollment program, which allows students to earn college credits while finishing high school.
Percent Online Enrollment
58%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Best Online Colleges in Ohio 2025
Muskingum University
- New Concord, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
Founded in 1837, Muskingum University offers students a private education at an affordable price. With a 13-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, learners at Muskingum receive individualized attention as they complete degree requirements to prepare for exciting careers.
Cost per Credit:
In State | $515
Out of State | $515
Why Students Choose Muskingum University:
- Low-Cost Private Education: Muskingum offers competitive tuition rates to its students, lower than many other comparable private colleges in Ohio.
- Support for Working Adults: The Muskingum Adult Program (MAP) helps working students earn their degrees without disrupting their routines.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Church Affiliation: Muskingum University is affiliated with the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).
- Adult Degree Completion: Adult learners who didn't finish their undergraduate education can return to school by enrolling in Muskingum's degree completion program.
- Financial Aid: Muskingum provides financial aid to 99% of its students.
Percent Online Enrollment
31%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Best Online Colleges in Ohio 2025
University of Cincinnati
- Cincinnati, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
What Sets It Apart:
One of Ohio's premier public research schools, the University of Cincinnati serves over 53,000 students. Despite its size, the university maintains a 19-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio, ensuring learners receive individualized attention from their instructors.
Cost per Semester:
In State | $5,141-$7,063
Out of State | $5,321-$7,243
Why Students Choose UC:
- Experience-Based Learning: The founder of cooperative education, UC helps students land paid internships and professional experiences.
- World-Class Medical Research: UC partners with organizations such as Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, UC Health, and the Cincinnati VA to produce health research and training for healthcare workers.
Know Before You Enroll:
- Test-Optional Admission: UC does not require standardized tests for admission, helping ensure that the school is inclusive.
- Transition from Military to University: UC's Office of Veterans Programs & Services helps military and veteran students transition from the military to college.
Percent Online Enrollment
62%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
At Affordable Colleges Online, we use a proprietary ranking system and data from reputable sources like the U.S. Department of Education to help you find the best school for your needs. Our most important metric — affordability — accounts for 60% of our formula on our most affordable rankings. We also consider academic quality, program offerings, online enrollment, and graduation rates.
This list is from 2025. To learn more, consult our school ranking methodology.
Price Check
College Credit Plus allows Ohio high school students to take college courses from public higher education institutions in the state. Public school enrollees can take classes for free, while homeschool students may pay fees. Private colleges and universities who participate in the College Credit Plus program may also charge fees.
10 Fast-Growing Jobs in Ohio
The following table includes some of Ohio's most in-demand careers based on state projections. Many of these options fall into the technology and healthcare sectors, two industries experiencing rapid expansion in Ohio. In fact, home healthcare services, specialty hospitals, data processing services, and computer systems design services are among the industries the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services projected would experience the fastest growth from 2018 to 2028.
Fast-Growing Careers in Ohio
| Job |
Projected Growth, 2020-2030 |
Average Annual Wage in Ohio, 2023 |
| Nurse Practitioners |
48.5% |
$122,870 |
| Statisticians |
34.6% |
$88,410 |
| Medical and Health Services Managers |
28.7% |
$118,940 |
| Physician Assistants |
28.6% |
$119,950 |
| Logisticians |
28.3% |
$85,750 |
| Information Security Analysts |
26.7% |
$113,610 |
| Data Scientists and Mathematical Science Occupations, All Other |
26.6% |
$97,530 |
| Physical Therapist Assistants |
26.5% |
$64,280 |
| Interpreters and Translators |
26.2% |
$58,910 |
| Epidemiologists |
25.7% |
$73,610 |
Source: Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Majors to Consider to Prepare for Ohio's Job Market
If you need help deciding what major to pursue to give yourself the best opportunities in Ohio's job market, consider the following options, which can lead to careers in some of the Buckeye State's fastest-growing sectors.
-
Business Administration
Business administration degrees help prepare learners for various roles essential to business operations, including marketing, analysis, and consultancy. Programs in this field typically offer specializations, like healthcare administration or logistics, which can lead students to top Ohio careers.
-
Nursing
Ohio's expanding healthcare sector offers a variety of medical careers, making nursing an ideal major. Nursing program enrollees can become registered nurses, nurse practitioners, medical and health services managers, nurse educators, or case managers.
-
Data Science
Data science students at online colleges in Ohio learn to manage, organize, collect, and analyze data. Graduates with data science degrees can pursue top careers in Ohio like data scientist, statistician, and information security analyst.
-
Biology
Epidemiologists and genetic counselors often have a biology degree. Many biology programs offer concentrations in epidemiology or genetics to develop pinpointed knowledge and skills in these areas.
Cost of Living in Ohio
Attending college in Ohio can be cost-effective for students — the state's healthcare, housing, utilities, and food costs are lower than national averages, according to World Population Review. The table below uses data from MIT to calculate the average price of monthly expenses for a childless adult in Ohio.
Average Cost of Living in Ohio, 2024
| Cost of Living Category |
Average Cost per Month |
| Housing |
$774 |
| Groceries & Food |
$347 |
| Transportation |
$826 |
| Medical Care |
$255 |
Source: MIT Living Wage Calculator, using data for one adult without children
Scholarships & Cost Savings for Online Colleges in Ohio
Scholarships can help make a college education more affordable. Students attending online colleges in Ohio can apply for many of the same scholarships on-campus learners do.
Remember that scholarships typically have eligibility criteria and deadlines, so read the instructions and criteria carefully before applying.
Several Ohio schools award this STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) scholarship to increase the state's STEM competitiveness nationwide. In the 2021-22 school year, awardees received an average of $4,324 for one year at four-year institutions and $2,226 for one year at two-year colleges.
Pell Grant-eligible students applying to the Ohio State University who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement receive an award equal to the full cost of attendance. The scholarship program aims to award at least two students annually from each Ohio county — 176 students total.
This scholarship encourages Ohio's high-achieving students to attend college or university and begin their careers in Ohio. To qualify, students must be in the top 5% of their graduating class. Recipients get up to $5,000 per year for four years.
High school seniors who attend an eligible high school and plan to attend specific institutions in the Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana tri-state area can receive a $20,000 scholarship from the Anthony Muñoz Foundation. Applicants must submit proof of financial need and a personal essay.
This scholarship is open to current or past qualifying Ohio Army or Air National Guard members. The award covers 100% of tuition for an associate degree, bachelor's program, nursing degree, or other qualifying program.
Tuition Reciprocity Benefits for Out-of-State Students in Ohio
Tuition reciprocity gives out-of-state students access to in-state or reduced tuition rates. Ohio has tuition reciprocity agreements with Indiana, Kentucky, and West Virginia. Students from these states can receive reduced or in-state tuition rates at participating Ohio colleges and universities, including Bowling Green State University, Ohio University, and the University of Cincinnati.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online College in Ohio
What is the cheapest online college in Ohio?
With current NCES data, that honor goes to Eastern Gateway Community College, which offers a number of online-only associate degree programs. EGCC cost $4,385 per semester for the 2023-2024 school year.
What is the easiest online college to get into in Ohio?
The following four-year schools have the highest acceptance rates in the state, according to data from College Navigator. These high acceptance rates mean these schools are typically the easiest online colleges to get into in Ohio. This list does not include schools with open admission.
- Art Academy of Cincinnati
- Bluffton University
- Columbus College of Art & Design
- Herzing University-Akron
- Hiram College
- Rabbinical College Telshe
- The Modern College of Design
- University of Toledo
- Wittenberg University
- Wright State University
How much does online college cost in Ohio?
Online colleges in Ohio typically charge the same tuition for online programs as they do for on-campus degrees. Some schools may offer discounted rates for online programs, including in-state tuition for out-of-state learners. According to NCES data for the 2021-22 school year, the average cost of in-state tuition for four-year public schools in Ohio was $10,456, while private schools' average tuition was $36,136. Online students often save on transportation, housing, and fees related to on-campus student services.
Are online colleges in Ohio free?
The Ohio Department of Education offers College Credit Plus, which allows public high school students to accumulate free college credits from in-state institutions before they graduate high school, promoting their readiness for college study.
Do I need to be a resident of Ohio to attend an online college in Ohio?
Like traditional on-campus programs, many online colleges in Ohio accept students from other states who meet relevant admissions criteria. At some universities, you must pay out-of-state tuition. At others, you may find discounted online program tuition. Check reciprocity agreements to see if you qualify for in-state tuition as an out-of-state resident.
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